IDEA Fellowship Program

AFP Massachusetts is committed to diversifying the development field. The Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access program (IDEA) is designed to help young fundraisers in their careers and their roles as fundraisers to have a positive impact on the missions they support. AFP solicits five fellowships annually for a two-year program that includes complimentary fundraising training and networking in year one and mentoring support in year two.

AFP defines diversity as a core value. It is an inclusive concept encompassing, without limitation, race, color, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation or identity, religion, nationality, age, economic class, education level, language, physical, mobility and ability, geography, and marital and parental status. The state of being diverse means having the broadest possible representation of individuals, experiences, and perspectives in all-encompassing terms. 

We are proud to be recognized as the AFP IDEA Champion. The designation is awarded to chapters demonstrating a commitment to increasing inclusion, diversity, equity, and access in the fundraising profession.

We urge you to apply today for one of five fellowships that will be given away at year end for the next fellowship year. The application period ends December 15.

 Apply Now

Benefits of the IDEA Program

IDEA Fellows receive the following professional development opportunities in year one:

  • Full Scholarship to attend Fundraising Day in Boston.
  • Full Scholarship to attend Fundraising Fundamentals course.
  • Complimentary attendance to other AFP programs.
  • Opportunities to meet and network with other fellows, members, and sponsors through organized events.

 
IDEA Fellows receive the following professional development opportunities in year two:

  • A mentor relationship with a seasoned fundraising professional, including a voucher for you and your mentor to attend Fundraising Day In Boston at a discount.
  • Ongoing opportunities to meet and network with other fellows, members, and sponsors.
  • Participation on an AFP MA Chapter committee.

Eligibility for the IDEA Program

Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements to be considered:

  • Diverse background or experience which is underrepresented in the development field.
  • Employed by a 501(c)(3) organization. Priority will be given to those with an organizational budget of $3M and under.
  • Support of an immediate supervisor and/or executive team.
  • Ability and commitment to participate in the programs that are offered by AFP MA Chapter.


Note:  You do not need to be a current member of the AFP Massachusetts Chapter to apply.
 

Mentors

If you are a senior practitioner with 6+ years of experience and have an interest in being a mentor in the diversity fellowship program please contact info@afpmass.org.

 

Testimonials from Past Fellows 

I gained new skills and information for writing successful grants, along with contact information for resources from different individuals and companies. It's a great program and asset to any one that has the opportunity to attend! 

The big benefit was attending any of the AFP educational events. It helped me learn a lot. The largest benefit was being provided a mentor. I just spoke with her recently and it is nice to stay connected to her. She helped me with my resume and with building my confidence. She also helped me get this job by introducing me to someone here in New York, so I would not be in this role without being introduced to my mentor through the AFP program.

The program gave me a window into the varying aspects of fundraising and the opportunity to be around people in the field and learning by taking advantage of the programs. Having the "Fellows badge" made me feel a part of things and encouraged me to grow in the work. It was a signature that I was supposed to be growing and advancing in my career which was helpful. So development is now officially in my blood. Thanks in large part to AFP.

Being an AFP Diversity Fellow was a great experience and I would recommend anyone in my field to apply to this fellowship. In addition to the networking and educational benefits of attending their big annual conference, AFP also provides workshops and courses on interesting topics that I am able to learn from and use in my profession. My advice is to fully utilize all the events and courses that AFP offers during your time as a Diversity Fellow. 

Questions

Questions regarding the Diversity Fellowship Program may be sent to the Massachusetts Chapter office at info@afpmass.org or contact us by phone at (781) 894-3140.